TOONTOPIA 2025: National Theatre and SMIDS Animation Launch Nigeria’s First Children's Animation Festival
17 May 2025
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Lagos is set to make animation history this Children’s Day with TOONTOPIA — the first-ever children’s animation festival hosted by the iconic National Theatre in partnership with SMIDS Animation Studios, one of Nigeria’s trailblazing animation houses.
Happening on Saturday, May 24, 2025, Toontopia marks a landmark moment not only for young creatives but for the broader animation industry in Nigeria. Themed around discovery, imagination, and African storytelling, this immersive one-day event is tailored for children aged 8 to 12, offering them a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes of animation and become creators themselves.

Far from a typical celebration, Toontopia fuses education, entertainment, and empowerment, crafting an environment where children can dream boldly and create freely. Activities include a hands-on animation workshop with professional animators, a guided Sip & Paint session, and a screening of curated African animated films that spotlight homegrown talent. Every child will leave not only with new skills but with a certificate of participation to commemorate their artistic journey.
According to the organisers, Toontopia is more than an event — it's a cultural statement. “We want to spark curiosity and show children that their stories, voices, and ideas can shape the future of African animation,” said a spokesperson from SMIDS Animation.
Supported by family-favourite brands like Indomie and Chivita, Toontopia is also a celebration of community, a convergence of art, youth development, and local storytelling.
Toontopia will take place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Alliance Francais in Lagos. The event kicks off at 9:00 AM and is open to children between the ages of 8 and 12. Registration costs ₦10,000 per participant.
For more information, contact the organizers via WhatsApp at 09019660110 or email info@smidsanimation.com.



